12/30/02

The
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
approved a special "certificate of attainment" for students who have
tried three times and failed to pass the state assessment test that is
required for a high school diploma. "It's to recognize and honor the
effort and persistence of students who have stuck it out through 12th
grade, who have given it their best," commented James A. Peyser,
chairman of the state Board of Education.